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What is Keratoconus?

A CHANGE IN YOUREYE'S SHAPE

Normally the corneas are gradually curved. Keratoconus occurs when the cornea thins and becomes more cone-shaped. It can lead to a range of vision problems.

KERATOCONUS SYMPTOMS

Keratoconus is not generally painful. It can develop suddenly, or progress over several years. The cornea is a link to components of the eye so as well as a noticeable physical change in the shape of the cornea, signs of the condition include:

Headaches

Irritation of the eyes

Eyestrain

Blurred vision

Sensitivity to light

Progressive short-sightedness

Reflection and halos around lights

MANAGINGKERATOCONUS

Mild symptoms can be managed with glasses or contact lenses – rigid contact lenses are the most effective type for correcting the effects of keratoconus. Regular trips to your optician will aid early diagnosis. In more severe cases, a medical procedure may be required, which your doctor will be able to discuss with you in more detail.

DID YOU KNOW?WHAT CAUSES KERATOCONUS?

Keratoconus occurs when the cornea thins and becomes more cone-shaped.

The cornea is the clear layer at the front of the eye. It is held in place by tiny collagen fibres. If these become weak, the cornea will bulge outward to give a cone-shaped appearance.

There are several potential causes of keratoconus, including genetics, the environment and your endocrine system.